Community Blanket and Diaper Drive

The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBGYN) created the Healthy Women, Healthy Babies Fund to actively work with women of all ages and communicate the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

By providing education and resources to women, we hope to develop strong, healthy families. OBGYN recognizes that complicated social and physical barriers can limit the amount of healthy resources available to women and their families.

By working with area programs and services, the Department makes a special effort to reach out to at-risk women in underserved areas of the city. OBGYN has partnered with the Madison Mini Marathon because we care about the women of Wisconsin and their families.

This year's race is Saturday, August 17, 2013. As a charity partner, OBGYN is hosting a Community Blanket and Diaper Drive August 1 – 31.

Make a Donation

New diapers and new and gently used blankets can be dropped off at a variety of locations in Madison.

This year, we are introducing a new opportunity for the community to be able to donate online to the blanket and diaper drive.

Donate online to the blanket and diaper drive

The dollars raised will be used to purchase additional diapers and blankets for:

• South Madison Health and Family Center
• Wisconsin Women's Health Foundation First Breath Program
• March of Dimes

The Importance of Blankets

Swaddling an infant in an appropriate blanket can help provide a sense of comfort, and they will often sleep longer and wake less often. It's important to note that loose blankets and bedding should never be left in an infant's crib, however, there are specially designed swaddling blankets available in stores and at the Kohl's Safety Center in American Family Children's Hospital.

When it comes to selecting blankets, there are many different fabrics to chose from. Plain cotton is probably the most durable and can withstand many washings. Blankets with a satin-like edging may be better for play because babies often like the touch and feel of the smooth fabric. Velour or similar fabrics are often very soft and warm, but may not hold up under frequent washings.